Épisodes

  • Episode 17 - A Podcast Year in Review and What’s Ahead for Westminster

    Episode 17 - A Podcast Year in Review and What’s Ahead for Westminster
    Jan 15 2026
    In this year-in-review episode of The Town Crier, Town Administrator Stephanie Lahtinen looks back on 2025 and sets the stage for 2026. The episode reflects on how the podcast began, what residents asked about most, and the most-listened-to episode of the year featuring Select Board Clerk Mike Cooley, with thanks to Ash West Community Media, and all who helped share the show. You’ll also hear the start of budget season, a few details on Massachusetts property valuations and why tax bills changed, the new 2026 tax rate of $11.73, plus updates on the 25th edition of the South Street Sentinel, Annual Town Report photo submissions, community events, progress on Old Town Hall, and a preview of upcoming guests and topics for 2026.

    Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email podcast@westminster-ma.gov — your input makes the show
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    24 min
  • Episode 16 - Fall into Town Meeting Season

    Episode 16 - Fall into Town Meeting Season
    Oct 30 2025
    It’s that time of year again. Special Town Meeting, trick-or-treat, and plenty happening around Westminster!

    In this episode, Stephanie breaks down the six articles on the draft November 18th Special Town Meeting warrant, explains common Town Meeting buzzwords (like Free Cash and Stabilization), answers listener questions about the local motel and updated FEMA flood maps, and runs through all the Halloween and community events you won’t want to miss — including the Bonfire at the VFW Field.

    Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email podcast@westminster-ma.gov — your input makes the show!
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    41 min
  • Episode 15 - Catching Up and Kicking Off Fall in Westminster

    Episode 15 - Catching Up and Kicking Off Fall in Westminster
    Oct 9 2025
    Thanks for tuning back in after our short hiatus! In this episode, we’re catching up on all the happenings around Westminster over the last six weeks.

    Stephanie shares updates on the swearing-in of Police Chief Matthew LeMay, the ongoing Old Town Hall restoration, and the MBTA Communities bylaw passing at the September 16, Special Town Meeting.

    We’ll also cover fall highlights including the 10th Annual Cracker Festival, Halloween festivities, and a preview of the November Special Town Meeting. Plus, there are still openings in the 60% AMI category at the Westminster Senior Residences—applications available at www.westminsterseniorresidences.com

    Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email podcast@westminster-ma.gov — your input makes the show!
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    23 min
  • Episode 14 - Heath Director, Abby Conlin

    Episode 14 - Heath Director, Abby Conlin
    Aug 28 2025
    This week on The Town Crier, Health Director Abby Conlin joins us to cover flu clinics, rodent concerns, home kitchen permitting for local bakers and food enthusiasts, and the everyday permits handled by the Health Department. We also dig into well water vs. town water, Title 5 bedroom rules, the new ADU bylaw, and seasonal reminders on ticks and mosquitoes. Abby shares the latest on PFAS and how residents can get answers to their water quality related questions.

    We’ll wrap with a summer send-off and a look ahead to the MBTA Communities Special Town Meeting on September 16.

    Do you have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email podcast@westminster-ma.gov — your input makes the show!
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    1 h et 8 min
  • Episode 13 – It’s already August?! and What’s Around the Corner

    Episode 13 – It’s already August?! and What’s Around the Corner
    Aug 7 2025
    Stephanie recaps Summer Rec, previews Benefit Day and the Firefighter Muster, and shares updates on planned MBTA Communities Special Town Meeting, and a little about back-to-school. Notice: Town water users should expect a letter this weekend about elevated TTHMs—contact DPW with questions.

    Feedback, questions, comments and suggestions for content always welcomed at podcast@westminster-ma.gov
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    21 min
  • Episode 12 - Master Plan Update & MBTA Communities Explained

    Episode 12 - Master Plan Update & MBTA Communities Explained
    Jul 24 2025
    In this episode, we’re joined by Planning Director Ryan Doherty for an in-depth look at two of big topics in Westminster: the Master Plan Update and the upcoming MBTA Communities zoning article.
    Ryan walks us through how residents can get involved, key dates, the survey currently underway, and a lot of important details about the MBTA Communities law.

    We also recap the Fire Department’s 200th anniversary celebration, monument rededication, and recent Select Board updates on the Police Chief hiring process.

    For more information and helpful FAQs about the MBTA Communities zoning initiative, visit:
    https://www.westminster-ma.gov/planning-department/pages/mbta-communities3a-information

    Subscribe and send in your questions to podcast@westminster-ma.gov!
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    39 min
  • Episode 11 - Dollars and Sense: Understand Your Tax Bill

    Episode 11 - Dollars and Sense: Understand Your Tax Bill
    Jul 10 2025
    Taxes don’t have to be a mystery!

    In this episode of The Town Crier, Treasurer/Collector Melinda Horrigan joins us to break down how your tax bills are calculated, when and how to pay them, and what to do if you fall behind. We cover real estate taxes, motor vehicle excise tax, online payment options, and common myths residents often have about the process.

    Plus, Academy Hill Park is officially open! After a soft opening on July 5, families can now enjoy the new climbing structures, slides, and picnic areas. We share rules for using the park and details on temporary parking while the finishing touches are completed.

    Stay informed, and keep your questions coming to podcast@westminster-ma.gov.
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    38 min
  • Episode 10 - Summer Safety: Fire & Police Talk Shop

    Episode 10 - Summer Safety: Fire & Police Talk Shop
    Jul 3 2025
    Happy Fourth of July, Westminster! In this special holiday episode, Stephanie sits down with Fire Chief Kyle Butterfield and Acting Police Chief Jason Tamulen, for a full rundown of practical tips to keep your family safe this summer. From fireworks rules and backyard fire and water safety, heatwave preparedness, and what to do during large gatherings.

    Plus, get the latest on, Academy Hill Park soft opening, Woo Sox Town Takeover Night on July 31st, Westminster Town Band summer concerts, Fire Department’s 200th Anniversary events, Road construction updates, trail volunteer opportunities, and more to help you plan your July.

    Stay informed, stay safe, and celebrate responsibly!
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    51 min
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